Europe's quirkiest holiday rentals

Perched in the treetops that surround an Italian farmhouse, the TREEhouse offers a new perspective on those tranquil Tuscan views... The simple studio accommodation is perfect for two, with a queen-sized bedroom, kitchenette, bathroom and a private outdoor terrace. The property is in the heart of the Chianti wine region (one hour's drive from Siena), and is owned and managed by a friendly Italian family – complete with a dog, and 90-year-old grandma Emilia.

The owners of this little bolthole in Shaldon have managed to pack in all the style and charm of the quintessential Great British seaside – despite it being a teeny weeny beach hut! Small in size but grand in ambition, this coastal accommodation has room to sleep four people, with a modern kitchen, sleek bathroom and entertainment system to boot. Not that you'll want to spend much time indoors: the beach is just a short walk away.

What more could you wish for in Brussels, than to stay in your very own mini museum, dedicated to humble pommes frites? On arrival, you'll be met by journalist and Belgium expert Hugh Henry, who'll give you the lowdown on where to find the city's best fries – they're his great passion, apparently! The apartment (complete with two bedrooms, entertainment system and 100-square-metre terrace) is also a bit of an art gallery, with a selection of locally-produced paintings and sculptures that change every few months.

Almost every inch of this one-bedroom apartment is dedicated to showcasing Marseille's vibrant art scene. It's located on the second floor of a traditional old mansion – a visual treat in itself – and decorated with an ever-changing array of contemporary paintings, photography, and designer furniture. Make an arty weekend of it with a visit to the nearby galleries and boutiques of the Old Port and city centre.

This isn't just a treehouse – it IS a tree! The branches of a (very sturdy) tree grow through this studio-style holiday rental in central Spain. Believe it or not, there's room for two adults and two children inside, and the landscaped garden in which it sits boasts a barbecue and pool, too.

In a former furniture factory and picture framing workshop in trendy East London, this spacious loft apartment is truly unique. If you're travelling to London with a group of friends, this is the place for you: the property sleeps six people with ease (but can accommodate more) – and there's a whopping 12-seat dining table, too. The décor pays homage to the apartment's former guises: you'll spot designer furniture and a myriad of framed pictures at every turn – and you're just down the road from galleries and arty boutiques, too.

Moored on the River Loire, this four-birth boat is ideal for exploring the waterways of Nevers in central France. It's snug, but onboard you'll find a well-equipped living space and a lovely terrace – perfect for leisurely long lunches in the port, or soaking up the rays as you motor on the river. If you're after an adventurous twist on a French city break, this is the accommodation for you!